Hojiso Shiso 穂紫蘇

Hojiso Shiso (穂じそ, 穂紫蘇)

It has a fresh, aromatic flavour that is slightly spicy and has soft notes of mint, basil, and citrus, with a mild peppery finish.
Use it when you want an elegant finishing herb that adds fresh aroma and subtle flavour to Japanese-inspired dishes.

Why you’ll love it

– Freshness: Harvested, cut, and packed when you place an order
– Hyperlocal: Grown in Scarborough for pickup or local delivery
– Clean: Hydroponic, soil-free, and grown in a controlled indoor system
– Flavour: Fresh, slightly spicy flavour, with fresh mint, basil, and citrus notes
– Color: Slender green flowering spikes with dark purple-burgundy underneath
– Best for: Sushi, sashimi, seafood, rice dishes, noodle dishes, salads, and elegant garnishes

Best ways to use Hojiso Shiso

Use as a finishing herb to add a fresh aroma and delicate flavour right before serving.
Scatter over sushi, sashimi, rice bowls, noodle dishes, tofu, salads, or chilled appetizers.
Sprinkle over seafood, grilled fish, vegetables, tempura, or Japanese-style salads.
Add it near the end to preserve the delicate aroma and texture.

Hojiso Shiso pairs well with tuna, salmon, yellowtail, scallops, shrimp, grilled fish, tofu, daikon, avocado, cucumber, sesame, soy sauce, ponzu, yuzu, rice vinegar, and pickled vegetables.
Hojiso Shiso is often used as a garnish for sushi, sashimi, rice bowls, chilled noodle dishes, seafood, and traditional Japanese cuisine.

Why hydroponic Hojiso Shiso?

Hydroponic growing uses a water-based nutrient system instead of soil. This helps keep the crop clean, controlled, and close to the community.
Since we grow locally in Scarborough, travel time from harvest to pickup or delivery is reduced.

Indoor hydroponic growing can also support careful water use because water and nutrients are managed in a controlled system.
For customers, that means fresh local herbs grown with care, consistency, and less dependence on long-distance supply chains.

Freshness Tips

– Rinse before use
– Snip only what you need to maintain freshness
– Keep refrigerated in a loosely covered container or bag to help reduce moisture loss
– Avoid storing near the back of the refrigerator where the herb may freeze
– Use within 5 to 7 days for the best flavour and aroma

Browse all hydroponic herbs from 5N2
Learn more about hydroponic vertical farming from Farm Credit Canada (FCC).